How to Use a Resistance Band

Hi. Today I'm going to show you how to use the resistance band to strengthen your muscles. You can use the resistance bands from your care kit, which come in three different colors. The purple band is the lightest resistance, the blue band is a medium resistance, and the green band is the hardest resistance. You can start with the purple, or light, band to get the hang of it.

First, we'll go over how to hold the resistance bands. For most exercises, you can hold the band at the ends — hold one end of the band in each hand. Holding the band closer to the ends will be easier to pull on, because there's more slack and less resistance. Now try holding the band closer to the middle. Holding the band towards the middle will make it harder to pull on, because there is less slack to work with and more resistance. You can also wrap the ends of the band around your hands. This will make sure you do not let go of the band and have it snap back towards you, especially when you apply resistance to it. Try holding the band at the ends first, and looping the band around your knuckles until you feel like you have enough resistance.

Second, let's go over how to use the bands to exercise. Resistance band exercises are a form of resistance, or strength, training. Resistance training may involve tying or tethering the band to an object so you can do different movements. This may include stepping on the band, holding onto the band, looping the band around a chair or chair leg, sitting on the band, and so much more. There are a lot of creative ways to use it. However, you want to be sure that you are using the right form for that exercise — to avoid injury and to properly target the muscle or muscle group. Ask your care manager for help if you're unsure whether you're using the correct form.

Lastly, resistance band safety is important to make sure you do not get injured. Resistance band training is considered very safe, although there are some general tips you want to follow. When using a resistance band: do not release the band when there is tension on it. Avoid quickly increasing or decreasing the resistance on the band. Do not try to stretch the band over three times its original length. Choose the right resistance band for you — it's better to start light and work your way up to a harder band. Avoid exposing the bands to high temperatures and bright sunlight for long periods of time. Make sure your bands do not have any tearing before using them. Be sure your bands are properly secured or held tight by wrapping the bands around your hands. Do not use resistance bands to strength train if you have any current injuries in the affected area, and follow all guidelines for form, or ask your care manager for help.

And that's how to use a resistance band to strengthen your muscles. Thanks for watching "How to Use a Resistance Band." You can find more videos on resistance training and exercise in the resource section of the app. If you have any questions, please reach out to your care manager in the chat function of the app. You've got this — let's get moving.

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